Would you take 10 pairs of shoes for a two-week vacation?
When luggage space is at a premium, the last thing you want to do is carry unnecessary luggage. Shoes, in particular, can be heavy and awkward, so you need to be careful about which shoes you pack.
You need the right style to complement your outfit, but avoid carrying pieces that will only be worn once. The shoes you bring must be versatile, comfortable, and also stylish (unless you’re happy to look like a tour guide during your stay).
I spend quite a bit of time designing the best shoes for (most) vacations because so many clients ask me to help them pack for their travels. I also have a husband who thinks 5kg is too much luggage space, so I have developed the art of packing light.
Here are three styles I would never wear on vacation and three styles I would wear:-
Shoes I would never take on vacation:-
High heel
Cobblestone streets and old paving stones don’t go well with high heels. It’s nice to take a relaxing stroll on vacation, but it’s not so relaxing in high heels.
ballet flats
Most holiday wardrobes feature mid-length styles that are all in the wrong proportions when paired with ballet flats. They are closed which is not great in hot climates and many high street styles are constructed like slippers – so not good for supporting the foot!
any kind of boots
I get it, your cowboy boots match that outfit. I realize this makes them easy to pack, but you just end up feeling hot and annoyed when you wear them. Even high-top shoes can feel uncomfortable in hot weather, especially canvas shoes.
Here’s what to pack:-
Birkenstock shoes
They are sturdy, comfortable and suitable for a variety of uses. Another bonus is that they are great for wearing to the airport because they are easy to put on and take off.
Arizona big buckle Birkenstocks
espadrilles
There are some gorgeous and varied espadrille styles out there. Wedge styles are perfect if your resort wear requires some height, but there are plenty of great flat styles too. I’m a big fan of the Castaner series.
Castaner Carina from Net a Porter
Leather flip-flops or flip-flops
Plastic flip-flops are suitable for pool wear, while leather flip-flops are suitable for evening wear. The V-shaped front is very flattering because it elongates the leg, so this is a great style to have if you have thick calves and ankles.
Ayede leather sandals
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